Independentdistributors Optimum Releasing and Madman Entertainment have announced theformation of a home entertainment joint venture.

OptimumMadman will distribute titles in the UK and Australian markets.

First on the Optimum Madman slate is Bill Melendez' 1979Emmy award-winning animated feature The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Also acquired for both UK and Australian markets areGuillermo del Toro's debut feature Cronos and the 14 classic titles that make up the SherlockHolmes Collectionstarring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce.